What does flatly mean?
Flatly is an adverb with two main senses. Its dominant use describes statements made in an absolute, unqualified way — when someone flatly refuses, flatly denies, or flatly rejects something, they do so decisively and without room for negotiation. A second sense describes a flat, monotonous, or emotionless manner of speaking or behaving, as in a character who replies flatly, drained of enthusiasm. The word derives from the adjective flat, extended figuratively from its physical sense of 'level' or 'even' to mean 'downright' or 'positive'. Flatly is common in journalism and formal reporting, where it efficiently conveys the firmness of a denial or refusal: officials flatly deny allegations, companies flatly reject takeover bids. Its connotations depend on context — decisiveness and finality when applied to refusals, dullness or coldness when applied to tone. Compact and versatile, it remains one of the most reliable ways in English to signal that an answer is not open to debate.
In an absolute and unqualified manner; outright.
"He flatly refused to answer any more questions."
Typically modifies verbs of refusal, denial, rejection, or contradiction.
In a flat, dull, or expressionless manner.
"She read the statement flatly, without a hint of feeling."
When someone flatly denies something, English borrows the dullness of a level surface to signal that no amount of persuasion will budge them.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of flatly
Flatly is formed from the adjective flat plus the adverbial suffix -ly. The adjective flat comes from Old Norse 'flatr', meaning level or even, which entered English during the Middle Ages. By at least the early modern period, flat had developed the figurative sense of 'absolute' or 'downright', and flatly followed as the corresponding adverb describing action done in such an out-and-out manner. It thus shares its Germanic root with words like flatten and flatware.
Related word forms
How flatly is actually used
Most often used with verbs of refusal or denial such as refuse, deny, reject, and contradict, where it signals finality rather than mere rudeness. When describing voice or delivery it carries a negative connotation of dullness or lack of emotion.
Easily confused with flatly
Flat is the adjective meaning level or smooth (or a noun meaning an apartment), whereas flatly is the adverb describing how something is said or done.